The BBC has reportedly been forced to double its budget for star signings on Celebrity Traitors, increasing the initial £1 million allocation to meet the demands of this year's A-list cast. The series, set to launch in autumn, has secured high-profile names including Richard E. Grant, Michael Sheen, and Miranda Hart.
Some contestants have already arrived in Scotland via private jet, landing at Inverness Airport before being transported in blacked-out vehicles to Ardross Castle, where the show is filmed. A source told The Sun that the production team had little choice but to accommodate the celebrities' demands, acknowledging that the number of A-listers participating this year makes it exceptional.
Additional Costs and Security Measures
According to the publication, the cost of travel, security, and accommodation for this year's cast is expected to reach at least another £1 million, effectively doubling the original budget. Many of the stars are accustomed to working in the United States and expect the Hollywood treatment, including heightened safety and privacy protocols.
The insider explained: 'They don't want to find themselves thrust into the spotlight, or put in any kind of danger, so demand substantial security the minute they arrive. But it's also more than a little bizarre because Inverness is pretty quiet and remote — it's not like arriving at JFK or LAX Airport.'
Last year, contestants were transported in a minibus, but this year they are being chauffeured in private cars. The journey from the airport to the castle takes approximately 45 minutes. Additionally, most contestants are now arriving with partners and publicists, rather than traveling alone.
Confirmed Participants and Fees
So far, celebrities spotted heading to the castle include Jerry Hall, Maya Jama, Amol Rajan, Bella Ramsey, James Acaster, Ross Kemp, Joanne McNally, James Blunt, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Michael Sheen, and Miranda Hart. Each contestant is reportedly paid a flat fee of £40,000 for participating in the Claudia Winkleman-hosted series, bringing the total cost for the 21 signings to £840,000.
While this fee is lower than what many stars typically command, the opportunity to win £100,000 for a chosen charity, reach up to 15 million viewers per episode, and enjoy the game itself are motivating factors. The BBC declined to comment on the report.
Celebrity Traitors will return to the BBC this autumn.
